INNOVATIONWeeks to result

The Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Theory of Innovation

Combine existing ideas

CreativityProblem-SolvingR-Directed Thinking
Problem it solves

stagnant innovation

Best for

Entrepreneurs and inventors

Not ideal for

Those who prefer traditional, methodical approaches

Overview

Why this framework exists

This framework involves combining two existing ideas to create something new and innovative. It requires R-Directed Thinking and a willingness to take risks. The theory is illustrated by the story of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, which were created by combining chocolate and peanut butter.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Combine existing ideas to create something new
  2. Take risks and experiment with novel combinations
  3. Use R-Directed Thinking to make connections between seemingly unrelated ideas

Steps

3 steps
  1. Identify existing ideas
    Look for existing ideas that can be combined to create something new. This can involve brainstorming, research, or simply paying attention to your surroundings.
    Pro tipUse mind maps or other visual tools to help generate and organize ideas
    WarningBe careful not to get stuck in a rut and only consider obvious combinations
  2. Combine ideas
    Take the existing ideas you've identified and combine them in new and innovative ways. This can involve experimenting with different combinations, testing and refining your ideas, and being willing to take risks.
    Pro tipUse prototyping or other iterative design methods to test and refine your ideas
    WarningBe careful not to get too attached to a particular combination - be willing to pivot if it's not working
  3. Refine and iterate
    Once you've combined your ideas, refine and iterate on them to create a cohesive and effective solution. This can involve testing and refining your idea, gathering feedback, and making adjustments as needed.
    Pro tipUse feedback from others to help refine and improve your idea
    WarningBe careful not to over-refine or over-complicate your idea - sometimes simplicity is key

Checklist

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Examples

2 cases
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

The story of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups is a classic example of the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Theory of Innovation in action. By combining chocolate and peanut butter, the inventor created a new and innovative product that became a huge success.

OutcomeThe product became a huge success and is still widely popular today
The Ecotrek backpack

Another example of the theory in action is the Ecotrek backpack, which was invented by combining the structure of a suspension bridge with the components of a traditional backpack.

OutcomeThe backpack became a popular and innovative product in the outdoor industry

Common mistakes

3 traps
Not taking risks
One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to apply the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Theory of Innovation is not taking enough risks. They may be afraid to combine ideas in new and unconventional ways, or they may be too attached to traditional methods.
Not being open to new ideas
Another mistake people make is not being open to new ideas and perspectives. They may be too focused on their own ideas and not willing to consider alternative approaches or combinations.
Not refining and iterating
Finally, people may make the mistake of not refining and iterating on their ideas. They may come up with a combination that seems promising, but then not test and refine it to make sure it's effective.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The theory is based on the idea that many inventions and breakthroughs come from reassembling existing ideas in new ways. It was popularized by the story of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, which were created by combining chocolate and peanut butter.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
A Whole New Mind
Pink, Daniel H. · 2006
Open source →

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